La Guardia Airport (LGA): Approximate driving time is 20 minutes and distance is 7 miles.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Approximate driving time is 35 minutes and distance is 18 miles.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Approximate driving time is 40 minutes and distance is 19 miles.

Driving directions from LaGuardia: Take Grand Central Pkwy west to I-278 (Brooklyn-Queens Expy). Exit to SR 25A and bear right onto Queens Plaza N. Continue on Queensboro Bridge and exit to 2nd Ave south. Turn left on 2nd Ave, then turn right on E 57th St. Turn left on Lexington Ave.

Driving directions from JFK: Take I-678 (Van Wyck Expy) north to I-495 (Long Island Expy) west. Take the Queens Midtown tunnel and exit to 37th St/38th-40th Sts. Turn left on E 37th St, then turn right on 3rd Ave. Turn left on E 49th St, then turn left on Lexington Ave.

Driving directions from Newark: Follow signs to take US 1/US 9 north to I-95 (New Jersey Tpke) north (toll road). Take I-495 to the Lincoln Tunnel and exit to West Side Hwy/40th St. Turn right on W 40th St, then turn left on 3rd Ave. Turn left on E 49th St, then turn left on Lexington Ave.

Getting there: For solo travelers, the best choice from any of the airports is Super Shuttle or a similar service ($16–25). For groups of two or more, a taxi is usually a better value ($26–35 from LaGuardia; more than $36 from JFK and Newark). Other transportation into the city, including express buses and JFK's Air Train, is less expensive ($5–15) but does not go to individual hotels. A taxi or subway ride can complete the trip. (All fees subject to change without notice.)

Getting around: Walking is an excellent way to experience the flavor of the city and visit nearby attractions. For other destinations, the subway is a good choice, especially during peak traffic (less than $5; fees subject to change without notice). Taxis are another good way to get around town, or the hotel can arrange private car service. Rental cars are not recommended.

Lobby Lounge - The lounge in the paneled marble lobby serves cocktails and a variety of other beverages.

Amenity highlights: The hotel offers an on-site exercise room, plus a concierge and theater/travel/tour desk. A gift shop is on-site and valet parking is available.

Insider tip: Designed by Arthur Loomis Harmon, the architect of the Empire State Building, the hotel was once the world’s tallest building and hailed in the 1920s by Architecture Magazine as “the most notable architectural achievement of our time.” The exterior’s neo-Romanesque decorative embellishments include gargoyles and sculptures of owls, lions, and pelicans.